[Choral Piece] High Difficulty! A selection of works that are hard to sing

44 crimson sparrowsyakushi: Hani Kyōko, kyoku: Kinoshita Makiko

44 Sparrows: from the mixed chorus suite “Three Mysterious Tales”

“44 Red Sparrows” by Japanese composer Makiko Kinoshita is a choral piece known for its challenging, intricate writing.

The breathing points are hard to grasp, and the main motif in four-part mixed chorus unfolds at relentless speed, making it tough just to keep up with the flow.

Its addictive, enigmatic lyrics and floating, airy sound are also part of the appeal.

With a uniquely memorable melody and rhythm that may seep into your body the more you sing it, this work is well worth the challenge—why not give it a try?

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ChessboardOfisharu Higedan Dism

N-Con 90 Required Piece “Chessboard” Women’s Three-Part Version | Kobe City Mixed Chorus

This is a song by Official HIGE DANDism, newly written as the set piece for the Junior High School Division of the 90th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Set to a beautiful melody, it delicately expresses the emotions of searching for one’s role in life and the path one should take.

It was released digitally in August 2023, followed by a CD release in September as a double A-side single with “Nichijou.” The song was also broadcast on NHK’s program “Minna no Uta,” resonating with many listeners, particularly among younger generations.

Brimming with a gentle warmth throughout, it is a perfect piece for female chorus.

What I dreamed ofSakushi: Tachihara Michizō / Sakkyoku: Kinoshita Makiko

Women’s Choir Ardor 7th Concert “What I Dreamed Of”

A piece marked by gentle, flowing melodies and beautiful lyrics that quietly sing of love and happiness.

Set to a poem by Michizo Tachihara with music by Makiko Kinoshita, this work tenderly portrays the lives of women in a quiet village.

Its message—an invitation to rediscover the happiness close at hand—will resonate deeply with people leading busy modern lives.

Included on the album “The Sun Hangs at the Center of the Sky: Songs by Makiko Kinoshita,” it is often featured in concerts.

When you’re weary from daily life and wish to soothe your heart, lend it your ear.

Mysteries of the Seasakushi: Kawasaki Hiroshi / sakkyoku: Hirayoshi Takushu

[National Gold Prize] 'Mysteries of the Sea' ♪ The sea is vast and boundless~ (Hachinohe City Nejo Junior High School Choir) #NCon

This choral piece brilliantly captures the vastness and mystery of the sea.

Its wave-like, undulating melodies and harmonies are striking, and the lyrics—woven with references to the coelacanth, the Mariana Trench, and Ryukyuan legends—invite listeners into the ocean’s wondrous realm.

Selected as the set piece for the 1989 NHK All-Japan School Music Competition (Junior High Division), it continues to be featured in choral competitions nationwide as a “high-difficulty” work.

Let’s practice together and bring to life a grand drama of the sea.